Three children and a young woman died when a boat carrying migrants capsized off the island of Leros early Sunday morning.
The body of the woman, estimated age 17-20, was found floating in the water.
The children, two boys aged 5 and a 4-year-old girl, were alive but in serious condition when they were rescued and taken to hospital. Despite doctors’ efforts all three kids had died by early Sunday evening.
Earlier KTG reported about the incident:
So far, 23 people have been rescued, while the SAR continues to evacuate another 6 people trapped on a rocky beach.
Authorities were alerted on Sunday when a fisherman located a body floating in the sea.
Three coast Guard boats and a super Puma helicopter are operating in the sea, while police officers participate in the SAR on land.
There is currently bad weather in the area and winds are blowing with intensity of up to 6 Beaufort.
Among the rescued passengers are reportedly infants, women and people with mobility problems. They have been taken to the identification center of the island. Six children and two adults have been taken to hospital.
The Coast Guard is trying to get a clear picture of the total number of passengers on the boat and how many have been missing.
A total of 41 people have been rescued, so far.
According to latest information, another two passengers have died.
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